Is it just me or does every good trip include at least one to-die-for meal? Some people schedule adventure trips, culture travel, business-with-pleasure. At scoop, we plan around the meals. Whether it’s a stunning view, unique flavors or a landmark experience, these travel-worthy restaurants within four hours of Charlotte are my favorites for what it takes to satisfy both your appetite and the travel bug.
Destination: Greenville, SC
Distance from Charlotte:Â 102 miles. 1 hour, 49 minutes
Where to make reservations: Enjoy dinner at Larkin’s On The River, recognized as Best Downtown Restaurant by the Best of the Upstate 2016. Menu highlights include the veal osso bucco, caesar salad tossed table side, Larkin’s signature bone-in filet mignon and a three-course signature menu. For a truly unique experience, join Chef Alex and wine expert Bruce Wise for an exclusive table for 12. Sign up solo or as a couple to meet new friends around the table while sampling multiple courses. 318 S. Main St. 864.467.9777.
Other notable Greenville eateries to round out your weekend are Chophouse ’47, Soby’s New South Cuisine and Roost Restaurant.
Rest up: The Westin Poinsett offers elegence in the heart of downtown, and is one of the only AAA four-diamond hotels in the city. 120 South Main St. 864.421.9700.
If it’s charm you’re after, consider a stay at the nearby Pettigru Place Bed and Breakfast. Nestled in the heart of downtown, the historic retreat features six guest rooms and a blooming English garden. 302 Pettigru St. 864.242.4529.
Destination: Valle Crucis
Distance from Charlotte:Â 107 miles. 2 hours, 10 minutes
Where to make reservations: You can’t miss The Mast Farm Inn. Take one of their culinary creations to go  (like the Blue Ridge Parkways Picnic Basket). Or, walk to Over Yonder, a celebration of historic Appalachian cuisine led by Chef Andy Long. Try the pan grilled North Carolina rainbow trout.
Rest up: The Mast Farm Inn has plenty of ways to relax and unwind after your meal. Chose from a guest room in the original 1880s farmhouse or a charming cottage.
Area bed and breakfast options include The Taylor House Inn, Mountainside Lodge B&B and the Lazy Bear Lodge.
Destination:Â Highlands
Distance from Charlotte:Â 166 miles. 3 hours, 30 minutes
Where to make reservations: Make plans to visit Madison, a farm-to-fork dining experience where chefs rely on their own gardens and greenhouses to create vibrant seasonal flavors. Enjoy favorites such as Painted Hills Beef Ribeye, Pecan Crusted Springer Mountain Chicken and Sunburst Trout in their warm dining room or at a table overlooking the Wine Garden. For an even more unique experience, groups of 12 or more can dine in Madison’s Wine Cellar. View the menu here. 455 Main Street. 828.787.2525.
Rest up: European elegance and mountain living meet at Old Edwards Inn & Spa. Relax in one of the Inn’s guest rooms, suites, cottages or private estates, each appointed with period antiques and luxurious Italian bedding. The Inn also includes a spa, shops and it’s own family of dining options to explore. In addition to Madison’s, dine at The Grill Room, The Wine Garden, Art’s At The Lodge or the Hummingbird Lounge. 445 Main St. 866.526.8008.
You can also find travelers relaxing at The Main Street Inn, a historic boutique inn restored to its original 1881 federal farmhouse style. The inn boasts 20 charming rooms, many with private balconies. 270 Main St. 828.526.2590.
Destination:Â Asheville
Distance from Charlotte:Â 130 miles. 2 hours, 9 minutes
Where to make reservations: Table Asheville is a destination for seasonal New American fare with a Southern flair. The menu, which changes daily, is a chance for chef Jacob Sessoms to show off regional and sustainable agriculture, with popular features including venison tartare and sunburst trout. Guests may also inquire about the Chef’s tasting menu for an expertly curated experience. 48 College St. 828.254.8980.
Other notable spots include Buxton Hall, a BBQ spot opened by James Beard Award winners chefs Meherwan Irani and Elliott Moss, and Rhubarb, where chef John Fleer brings Appalachian food traditions to Sunday supper in family-style meals.
Before heading out, grab breakfast at Biscuithead. Expect handmade biscuits with gravy flights (your choice of three!), and even a gluten-free and vegan option. You’ll struggle to choose from their menu of specialty biscuits, such as the mimosa fried chicken or brisket.
Rest up:Â Splurge for a view at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Settle into mountain charm at Carolina Bed and Breakfast, just a short walk from downtown Asheville, or soak in the village feel of the luxury Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville.
Destination: Wilmington
Distance from Charlotte:Â 198 miles. 3 hours, 29 minutes
Where to make reservations: Hang on to the last bit of summer a you dine completely surrounded by nearby Wrightsville Beach. The panoramic beach views diners get when they opt for a table on Oceanic Restaurant’s pier can’t be beat. Since 1990, Oceanic has been offering locals and travelers alike seasonal, chef-driven menus with the freshest local catches. Menu highlights include stuffed flounder, NC calabash platters and blackened sea scallops. Plus, a beachside brunch on Sundays. 703 S. Lumina Ave. 910.256.5551.Â
Rest up: Soak up the warm fall temperatures at Blockade Runner Beach Resort, an oceanfront getaway. Waynick Blvd. 910.256.2251.
To get a taste of Wilmington’s historic district, head downtown to stay at Camellia Cottage Bed and Breakfast or the C.W. Worth House.
Destination: Charleston
Distance from Charlotte:Â 209 miles. 3 hours, 17 minutes
Where to make reservations: There are so many fabulous places in Charleston, the topic deserves its own article (note to self). It may be an oldie, but it’s still a good choice – we never miss the AAA Four Diamond ranked Peninsula Grill. Indulge in selections from Oysters Rockefeller, seared foie gras and roasted duck breast. Called a “must-visit restaurant” by Town & Country Magazine and one of Conde Nast Traveler‘s top picks, Peninsula Grill offers a beautifully restored dining room dating back to 1844 and a charming outdoor courtyard. Inquire about their private dining options for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. Most importantly, save room for dessert. Peninsula Grill’s famous 12-layer Ultimate Coconut Cake has garnered well-deserved praise from around the world.
For a fresh take on the modern food emporium, head to Mercantile and Mash. Local vendors line the former Cigar factory space to offer everything from artisans cheese and charcuterie, gourmet sandwiches, sushi and snacks, and even a mixology-inspired cocktail bar.
Rest up: No need to wander far from Charleston’s historic district to rest your head. Settle into a room at Planters Inn, a member of the Relais & Chateaux family. The Inn boasts 64 guest rooms, a champagne bar and the Peninsula Grill restaurant.
